Atari XL manual Field. To actually get input from the user, you Must include

Models: XL

1 77
Download 77 pages 13.49 Kb
Page 42
Image 42

The Last Word 3.0 Reference Manual

 

field. To actually get input from the user, you MUST include the

 

<CTRL+L>ine Input macro command as normal. The macro will

 

then pause, allowing the text entry until <RETURN> is pressed.

 

The input is sent to the paste buffer and overwrites its contents,

 

even if a null string was entered. If the <CTRL+B>ranch Macro is

 

used before the Ask command, the branch will occur if the input

 

string was EMPTY.

 

The input string can be pasted into the document in the same way

 

as any normal paste operation. It can also be inserted into a

 

filename/search/replace input line with the <CTRL+B> command

 

(see below).

 

The Ask for Input command has virtually unlimited scope for

 

macro development, allowing the creation of truly interactive,

 

professional looking applications. Just remember that the contents

 

of the paste buffer are lost when this command is used.

<CTRL+B>

Branch to macro. Use this macro to create a branching condition.

 

Follow with a macro identifier before a LOAD MACROS

 

command, and the program will attempt to run this macro as soon

 

as the new macros are loaded. Used before a FIND command,

 

LW will branch to the macro if the string is NOT FOUND. Used

 

before a GOTO MARKER/NEXT MARKER/PREVIOUS MARKER

 

command, the branch will occur if the marker is NOT FOUND.

 

Used before a special macro CONFIRM (Y/N) command

 

<CTRL+C>, the macro will be branched to if the user responds

 

NO. Used before a <CTRL+A> Macro Ask for Input String, the

 

branch will occur if the subsequent input string is EMPTY. See the

 

<CTRL+Z> command for more conditional branching commands.

<CTRL+C>

Confirm (Y/N). Follow with a message terminated with

 

<RETURN>. LW will print the message, followed by a question

 

mark, then "(Y/N):". The user responds with the appropriate key.

 

"Y" will allow the macro to continue. "N" will terminate all macros

 

(even if the macro running is nested), or, if a branch macro is

 

pending after a <CTRL+B>ranch command, that macro will be

 

run. NOTE: Before the introduction of "macro conditionals" in later

 

TextPro versions, that program's <equivalent "Y/N" command,

 

<SELECT+CTRL+A>sk, always attempted to run the "&" macro if

 

"N" was pressed. LW does NOT include this feature: use the

 

<CTRL+B>ranch to pre-select a macro to run if "N" is pressed.

<CTRL+J>

Macro menu. Follow with a line of text terminated with

 

<RETURN>. The text should be in the form of some kind of small

 

menu. This message will be printed, then the program will run the

 

macro attached to the next key pressed.

 

The macro menu has been augmented somewhat since version

 

2.1 of LW. Since the macro menu command is by definition the

 

last command in a macro, it’s now possible to add two extra

 

parameters after the menu text. On a new line, type all the valid

 

keystrokes for the menu options, ending in <Return>. Then, on

 

the next line, type the ID characters for the macros you want each

 

7-42

Page 42
Image 42
Atari XL manual Field. To actually get input from the user, you Must include

XL specifications

The Atari XL series, launched in 1982, represented a significant evolution in home computing, building upon the foundation laid by the Atari 400 and 800 systems. This line of computers included popular models such as the Atari 600XL and 800XL, both of which combined affordability with robust capabilities, making them attractive options for home users, educators, and enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout features of the Atari XL series was its color display capabilities. The systems supported a resolution of 320x192 pixels with a vibrant palette of 128 colors, which enabled rich graphics for games and applications. This was complemented by the system's powerful Antic graphics chip that allowed for advanced video display modes, making the Atari XL series particularly popular for gaming and multimedia applications.

Another key technology driving the Atari XL series was its use of the 6502 processor, which delivered efficient performance and allowed for smooth multitasking. The systems typically came with 64KB of RAM, expandable to 128KB, providing ample memory for running multiple applications simultaneously, a notable feature in comparison to other microcomputers of the time.

The Atari XL series also introduced a new, user-friendly operating system known as Atari DOS. This improved disk management capabilities, making it easier for users to manage files and applications on floppy disks. The systems were equipped with built-in BASIC programming language, enabling users to dive into programming and coding, fostering a generation of hobbyists and developers.

Each model in the Atari XL series came with a distinctive keyboard design, offering both a chic and functional layout. The keyboards were known for their tactile feel, making them suitable for typing and coding over extended periods.

Additionally, the Atari XL computers were compatible with a wide range of peripherals, such as printers, modems, and disk drives, enhancing their versatility. Users could also take advantage of a rich library of software, including educational programs, productivity tools, and an ever-growing selection of games.

The Atari XL series not only boasted solid technology and capabilities but also garnered a devoted community. The systems contributed to a vibrant culture of gaming and computing in the early 1980s, which remains fondly remembered by enthusiasts today. With their combination of innovative technology, user-centric design, and a diverse software library, the Atari XL series played a crucial role in the evolution of home computing.